presented by Vision Long Island and the Long Island Main Street Alliance
May 8th, 2020
Quotes of Day
The following are an ongoping collection of quotes in opposition to a proposal to remove local zoning in the middle of ths pandemic.
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"While it is critical to rebuild our economy strategically on Long Island, it is essential that local government and local communities have a seat at the table. Development projects that fit a community's vision will be widely embraced and ensure economic success. While expediting projects is key, there is no need to bypass local zoning codes by expanding the state's disaster declaration beyond what it was intended for." - Hon. Judy Griffin, NYS Assemblywoman |
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“Bypassing the local communities input for development is something I strongly oppose, especially in the communities that I serve. The residents have the right to speak on the type of development that fits the needs of their community” - Hon. Taylor Darling, NYS Assemblywoman |
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"Ceding local zoning powers to New York State, the very heart of General Municipal Law, is wrong. Local elected officials know their communities best, and a 'one-size-fits-all' approach does not work. Upstate New York has very different zoning needs than downstate. Even Western Suffolk County is very different from the East End. I am strongly against these proposed changes." - Hon. Rob Calarco, Presiding Officer, Suffolk County Legislature |
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"As we emerge from the coronavirus outbreak, government must assist our businesses to recover through incentives, streamlined approvals and the removal of red tape. However, zoning laws must not be overridden by state government. Residents through their local representatives must continue to have the right to determine the nature and extent of development within their communities” - Hon. Rich Nicolello, Presiding Officer, Nassau County Legislature |
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“The establishment of local zoning regulations is the foundation of the citizenry’s founding of our villages, towns and cities in New York State. For over a century Zoning controls have proven to protect suburban neighborhoods, property values, and quality of life, and has been tested by the Supreme Court of the United States. The notion of repealing zoning controls is a perverse concept which will lead to overdevelopment of large buildings and undesirable commercial uses in residential neighborhoods which would only allow developers and greedy land owners to reap financial benefits under the guise of economic development.” - Hon. Alan Beach, Mayor, Village of Lynbrook |
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A message from Vision Long Island and |
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Helping Main Street through the
Coronavirus Shutdown
Day 54 of shutdown – Friday May 8th, 2020
The Coronavirus economic shutdown is on day 54. Monday some folks were trying to take the power of local zoning away from Town's and Villages, Tuesday local schools were being "reimagined" by the Gates Foundation, Wednesday the Post Office was envisioned to be "phased out" by a former partner at McKinsey – the week isn’t over yet should libraries and child care facilities be worried? Today’s downtown profiled is the Village of East Hampton. Our Communities Helping Communities segment was aided by Pink Tie Delivers & 1st Equity Title.
Here are some updates:
• The jobless rate has tripled and is at 14.7 percent.
• The Coronavirus crisis has necessitated school closings throughout the country. Some school systems were prepared to pivot into Distance Learning because their students have access to personal computers or District-supplied devices. This is not universally true, especially for many Central Islip and Brentwood students, where over 6,000 students have been identified as needing a computer to login and do their online school assignments. The communities of Central Islip and Brentwood have unified to help these students get the supplies they need, and deserve, to succeed in this new learning environment.
A GoFundMe page titled “Computers for Kids Campaign” has been set up with the hopes of raising $1,000,000 worth of funds in order to donate devices for the Brentwood and Central Islip students in need. If you are interested in making a financial donation towards this fundraising goal, please do so by using the GoFundMe link: gf.me/u/xx5dqc.
• After pressure from downtown Mayors, local chambers, small business advocates and really just about everyone the SBA is starting to fund truly small businesses. Many of the banks in charge of the applications gave loans to their biggest customers with very little going to small companies. Kudos to Congressmembers Lee Zeldin, Peter King, and Kathleen Rice who we have heard were very active in making this happen in concert with Senator Schumer and Gillibrand. Newsday did a cover story on this infuriating topic.
• The SBA says that $100 billion is still left in PPP for small businesses to apply.
• If you have received your PPP but need to know the guidelines for Loan Forgiveness.
• What could be good news for the LIRR – news is breaking that the President supports a 3.9 billion bailout package for the MTA.
• Re-opening has been a major topic for everyone. The LI Main Street Alliance was out in downtown Farmingdale this week hearing from shop owners and the Mayor.
• When businesses reopen, they must implement new safety precautions to help lower the risk of spreading the virus. These measures include strict cleaning and sanitation standards, restricting nonessential travel, adapting the workplace to allow for social distancing, and requiring masks to be worn if employees are in frequent contact with the public. To read the full list of guidelines, check out Governor Cuomo’s full release on the topic: https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/amid-ongoing-covid-19-pandemic-governor-cuomo-outlines-additional-guidelines-when-regions-can
• The US shelves guide to reopening.
• Suffolk County has produced a document to help guide reopening.
• NYS Sen Anna Kaplan hosted “Preparing Your Small Business for a Reopened Community,” featuring practical steps you can take right now to prepare your business for the next phase of this crisis. If you weren’t able to participate live, you can watch the replay any time on my Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/AnnaMKaplan/videos/2929655900462446/
• A proposal to remove local zoning and hand it over to Albany has been floated in Newsday and the LI Business News and now has been formally sent to the Governor’s 100 member advisory committee which contains roughly 5 Long Islanders and guided by the McKinsey company. Sadly this effort is presented in the middle of a pandemic with real people focused on human needs. Many builders are opposed to this measure along with State & County officials, municipal leaders, chambers and community organizations. LI Business News has an initial story on this power grab in the middle of a pandemic when most regular folks are at their most anxious and stressed.
• The Federal Reserve Board announced last Thursday that it is expanding the scope and eligibility for its Main Street Lending Program. The changes are designed to offer more options to a wider set of eligible small and medium-size businesses. The Fed said that the starting date for the program will be announced soon.
A webinar was held on this program with information below: https://www.federalreserve.gov/monetarypolicy/mainstreetlending.htm
• The Small Business Administration resumed accepting applications for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) yesterday from approved lenders on behalf of any eligible borrower. For more information, visit the SBA’s website here.
A message from the SBA:
The Small Business Administration will resume accepting PPP loan applications on Monday, April 27 at 10:30AM EDT from approved lenders on behalf of any eligible borrower. This will ensure that SBA has properly coded the system to account for changes made by the legislation.
We encourage all approved lenders to process loan applications previously submitted by eligible borrowers and disburse funds expeditiously. All eligible borrowers who need these funds should work with an approved lender to apply. Borrowers should carefully review PPP regulations and guidance and the certifications required to obtain a loan.
For more information on the Paycheck Protection Program, visit: sba.gov/paycheckprotection
They SBA also announced that:
The EIDL application will not reopen.
The applications already received, in the queue are being processed on a first come first serve basis.
• BUT The Emergency Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Advance/Loan portal is temporarily open for agricultural businesses that were previously ineligible for the program. New non-agricultural business applications will not be accepted. The portal will be opened for a limited period, and it is recommended that you apply as soon as possible. The link to the portal will be: http://www.sba.gov/Disaster
• Folks have been scrambling to see where there bank is regarding the SBA’s Payroll Protection Program – here is a list of the most SBA lenders for LI and the region.
• The IRS has an Employee Retention Tax Credit. Check it out here.
• Check on the status of your IRS Economic Impact Payment.
• The Gates Foundation will work to “reimagine” our schools.
• A former partner from McKinsey & Company is looking to phase out the Post Office.
• There are nearly 2 million folks currently out of work but the good news for some is that NYS is hiring 17,000 tracers at $57,000 a year. Check it out in Patch.
• The stories of community level philanthropy are heartwarming and we will profile at least one each day. Today's profile is in from the Long Island Farm Bureau.
• Pink Tie has set up a Pink Tie Delivers system to bring food to local pantries across Long Island. The launch started last week bringing food to the Salvation Army in Hempstead. Last week we headed to a Mastic Beach pantry supported by the William Floyd Community Summit and a Freeport food pantry. This week we are headed to Central Islip and will be in Westbury. Check out how you can help.
• The LI Main Street Alliance’s “We’re Open” Facebook page is live sharing all of the local businesses still operating in 40 local communities. Like it and share it and most importantly support your Main Street.
• Really thorough cover story in LI Business News of the Coronavirus shutdown's economic impact on Main Streets across Long Island. Many members of the LI Main Street Alliance were involved in the feature which covered the communities of Hempstead, Farmingdale, Patchogue, East Meadow, Bethpage and Babylon. Vision and the Nassau Council of Chambers of Commerce were interviewed as well. Check it out.
• NY Blood Center and Mt. Sinai are looking for plasma donations from patients who have successfully recovered for COVID-19 for convalescent plasma treatments, here is the information:
NY Blood Center
While COVID has no proven treatment, it is possible that plasma taken from those who have recovered (convalescent plasma), which has antibodies against the virus, could help. If you had a positive test, AND your symptoms have been gone for 14 days, AND you are willing to DONATE, please complete and submit this form.
All information provided will be kept confidential and will only be used to qualify you as a donor.
Mount Sinai COVID-19 Plasma Donation
If you had COVID-19 and have recovered you can help save a life. Your blood may contain antibodies that fight the virus and can help critically ill people. Mount Sinai is looking to screen you as a volunteer. Please fill out this form to see if you are eligible.
• It goes without saying that the front line providers in health care, police, ambulance, food services, pharmacy, child care, and many others are working round the clock and are the true heroes through this crisis.
• Support food for front line providers during the night shifts – There are many efforts during the day for food but night shift folks are not getting the meals as readily. Some Main Street restaurants are stepping up to feed folks after hours – here is one Go Fund Me page from a Main Street business in Patchogue assisting 11 hospitals!. https://www.gofundme.com/f/feed-the-nurses-pm-shift
Participate in the "Letters to Our Heroes" initiative! Families can send emails (or scan letters or artwork) to show their support for our first responders, doctors, nurses and healthcare workers who are helping to control the COVID-19 outbreak and keep our communities healthy. You can email them to: LSchaefer@NassauCountyNY.gov
The SBA sites and webinars and NYS DOL unemployment websites continue to be overloaded with requests. SBA webinars have been filled to capacity. The 311 call center in Suffolk, the call lines in Nassau as well and every Town, Village and community organizations are taking enormous amount of calls to answer questions and guide residents to resources where they are available.
For the small businesses that are still open there is a movement to continue to support them and keep them operating. To their credit that is largely happening in most downtowns across Long Island.
As we wrap up this through this eighth week of shutdown please think about supporting your local businesses at least once if not multiple times. We have spoken to over 600 local businesses in nearly 50 downtown communities and they need your help.
RECENT NEWS FROM GOVERNMENT
• Governor Cuomo’s May 8th message
• Nassau County Executive Laura Curran’s May 7th message
• Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone’s May 7th message
• Painful news is that NYS has ordered the Schools to be shut down through the end of the year.
• Looks like without small business aid half of NYS’s breweries will close within months.
• With no school to drive to a LI bus company closes and lays off 900.
• Problems continue as small businesses seek to access the Payroll Protection Program
• The Mckinsey Company will be assisting with planning the recovery.
• Local pharmacies will play a role in Coronavirus testing.
• Sen. Schumer calls on FDA to crack down on unregulated home coronavirus test kits
• County Executive Curran announced that Nassau is expanding testing in Hempstead and Freeport, and next week will open a testing site in Elmont. Testing will be provided by appointment only, and for more information or to make an appointment, call 516-396-7500
• US Senator Kirstin Gillibrand sent out a memo outlining some cases of fraud concerning SBA applications – please review and report and suspicious activity:
1) Emails impersonating SBA to a borrower regarding PPP loan applications. SBA DOES NOT communicate with borrowers regarding specific PPP loan applications. All PPP loan correspondence should be between the lender and the borrower.
2) Emails impersonating SBA asking for borrowers to complete and sign attached documents to “complete” their disaster “Grant Application.” SBA does not process grants. All EIDL loan processing now occurs through the EIDL portal, and legitimate loan approval emails clearly reference the original confirmation #. If additional documentation is required (95% of loans do not require more documentation), it is electronically handled in the portal. EIDL Advances process with NO action required on the part of the applicant.
3) These phishing emails are sophisticated, with SBA logos and styling consistent with legitimate SBA communications. If in doubt, the borrower may contact our office.
Report any suspected fraud to OIG’s Hotline at 800-767-0385 or online here.
• Senator Schumer’s release on $2 trillion Federal rescue package with $112 billion headed to NYS
• Senator Schumer proposed a “Heroes Fund” of $25,000 for all first line responders as part of the newest Federal Stimulus package.
• NYS Senator Todd Kaminsky introduced a bill supported by US Congresswoman Kathleen Rice for mortgage relief for homeowners.
• NYS Comptroller Tom DiNapoli has developed a Covid-19 Financial Survival Toolkit for New Yorkers with links and resources for residents, government entities, nonprofits and businesses. Check it out here.
• 10 Town Supervisors are urging NYS to push back the property tax deadline
• NYS Senator Anna Kaplan hosted a webinar on Facebook Live to help small business owners to make sense of the different relief programs that now exist to help during this difficult time. If you missed it live, you can watch it here.
• Here is the executive order from the Governor on compliance for face coverings.
• NYS is coordinating over 300 private labs to prioritize virology testing.
• Updated NYS guidance document on essential vs nonessential businesses.
• Nassau County Executive Laura Curran hosted a Coronavirus State of the County on News 12 Long Island you can watch it here.
• Long Island Towns are calling on the Governor to provide a delay in property tax payments.
• An agreement has been reached on replenishing SBA lending programs
This includes $320 billion for the SBA Paycheck Protection Program, including $60 billion which would be set aside for small lenders and community financial institutions and $60 billion for the Economic Injury Disaster Loan program. US Senator Kirsten Gillibrand led a webinar on the components of the agreement along with future and took many folks questions including those from Long Islanders.
• Nassau County will delay collection of licensing fees from some contractors whose licenses have expired past June.
• Lupinacci, Suffolk Town Supervisors Call for Residential Construction to Resume
• North Hempstead provides an update on their efforts against COVID-19
• The Village of Valley Stream is Supporting Small Business
• PSEG Long Island is warning you to look out for scams and fraud feeding on the pandemic
• AT&T is providing updates to their COVID-19 response along with resources.
RESOURCES FOR SMALL BUSINESS
• Resentment is growing on Main Street over bailout winners and losers
• For folks complaining about brick and mortar stores charging an extra dollar or two for hand sanitizer note that Amazon has been sued for price gouging with essential items spiking as high as 1,000%.
• US Senator Kristin Gillibrand has provided this thorough Q&A on the CARES Act.
• The US Senate has provided this resource guide for small businesses and the CARES act.
• A Small Business Owner's Guide to the CARES Act.
• The Federal Reserve unveiled the details of its Main Street lending program.
Here is a direct link to the Federal Reserve and initial documents.
• The NYS Department of Labor has instituted a new system to spread out applications. Check out the PSA that explains their new guidelines to get folks their benefits.
• The SBA Paycheck Protection Program is an important program and details are coming forward.
• Also check the Suffolk Chambers and Nassau Chambers website for important news and links.
Newsday and the LIA hosted a webinar with NYS SBDC and you can check it out here
• The LI Main Street Alliances “We Are Open” Facebook page is now live sharing all of the local businesses still operating in 40 local communities. Like it and share it and most importantly support your Main Street.
• Our friends at LISTnet have a Coronavirus support page.
• Updated information regarding REVISED SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan application can be found here.
• Property and casualty insurance premiums were waived for small business
• The Small Business Association announced an automatic deferment for loans from previous disasters
• All nonessential construction is shutdown
• Updated NYS guidance document on essential vs nonessential businesses
• Dining Bonds created to help local small businesses
• Facebook has grants for small businesses
• Kiva has grants for small business
• Amazon has a grant fund for small business
• Verizon has set up a small business recovery fund
• The US Chamber of Commerce has a small grant program for small businesses employing between 3-20 people is already oversubscribed after a few hours open. Check it out.
• The State established a new partnership with the New York State Court System to create a pro bono network of volunteer lawyers to provide New Yorkers in need with free legal assistance. Volunteers will begin to receive training and start offering assistance next week. Lawyers interested in volunteering can sign up at www.nysba.org/covidvolunteer
• If you are at home do you dream about going back to your office or workplace? If you are a boss or a manager here is what you should know from the Occupational Health and Safety Administration about making your workplace safe upon return.
• National Grid has created a targeted grants to help manufacturers who need assistance to develop new products or implement lean manufacturing, to produce critical items to support the pandemic response.
• Grants for Artists impacted by Coronavirus.
• Grants for Restaurant workers.
• SCORE Long Island is available to assist businesses with their SBA applications
• Here is a video with Leg. William Doc Spencer on safely supporting Main Street businesses
• Legislator Laura Schaefer has a series of videos on her Facebook page promoting takeout and delivery to independent small businesses. Here is one for West Hempstead.
• Nassau County Minority Affairs Director Lionel Chitty provides an update on small business disaster loans.
• Nassau County and Suffolk County are surveying small businesses: The Nassau County survey is here. The Suffolk County survey is here.
• RXR has set up a series of volunteer resources to help your business during the shutdown. Check it out.
• LI Business News and Newsday have done a great job reporting on the need to support local businesses. Here are a couple of recent stories spotlighting downtown businesses and the LI Main Street Alliance members:
Eating on the Run at LIBN
Survey of Downtown Businesses Shows Potential Closurees at Newsday
How to keep the money from the federal small business bailout at Crane's New York (Subscription required)
• LISTnet hosted a webinar with Vision and the LI Main Street Alliance on adapting to the technology of working at home. Here is the video link of the session.
• NYS Assemblywoman Judy Griffin hosted an event with local chambers and the LI Main Street Alliance on programs that can help small business. You can check out the call here. (Access password: 1j@44H@5)
Suffolk Legislator Dr. William Spencer and NYS Senator James Gaughran held a Virtual Town Hall to address the ongoing NYS response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the recently adopted 2020-21 NYS budget, and answer your questions. You can view the tape here.
• Nassau County Executive Laura Curran and Executive Director of Minority affairs Lionel Chitty were on Radio Zindagi 540 AM with Harry Molhatra from the South Asian Chamber of Commerce. They answering questions and concerns, informed the community and small business owners about important information
Radio zindagi on 540 AM You can view the tape here.
• Last week, NYS Senator Anna Kaplan held her second Small Business Support webinar with experts from the SBA and ESD giving an update about programs available to small businesses, and answering questions from business owners on Facebook Live. If you weren’t able to catch it the first time, you can watch it anytime at https://www.facebook.com/AnnaMKaplan/videos/931428823960667/
RESOURCES FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT / SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS
• The Governor has announced a new testing protocol.
• The NYS Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management has weblinks for assistance here.
• Newsday has set up a page on their website for free messages for community organizations.
• New grant resource for folks who provide meals to children from No Kid Hungry
• If you are a school providing meals during the Coronavirus crisis grants are available.
• The American Heart Association has grants for efforts to access healthy food and active living.
BILLS BILLS BILLS
• Some tips on bills you need to pay and some that you don’t as this crisis gets prolonged
• The IRS has created a Q&A page with information on what you need to do with your taxes
• Up to date information in accessing unemployment from NYS DOL
• If you filed for unemployment during the COVID-19 pandemic, you do not need to prove you are searching for employment to make a claim. Department of Labor Commissioner Reardon has signed a new order that limits all work search activities for all unemployment claimants. No activities are required during the pandemic to receive unemployment benefits.
• Life Insurance payments deferred - For a 90-day period, New Yorkers experiencing financial hardship due to COVID-19 may defer paying life insurance premiums. Late payments will be payable over a one-year period. Additionally, consumers and small businesses experiencing Coronavirus-related financial hardship may defer paying premiums for property and casualty insurance for a 60-day period. This includes auto, homeowners, renters and other kinds of insurance. (No late fees will be assessed and there will be no negative impact to your credit.)
• Pharmacies will now offer free home delivery to New Yorkers. All NYS major pharmacy chains, pharmacies have agreed to offer free home delivery to help reduce long lines for prescriptions at their facilities
• Student loan borrowers experiencing financial hardship due to COVID-19 can obtain relief for loans not covered by the CARES Act. Available relief includes 90 days of deferred monthly payments, waived late fees, no negative reporting to credit agencies and enrolling eligible borrowers in available long-term assistance programs. New York student loan borrowers should visit the Department of Financial Services' website at dfs.ny.gov for more information about available student loan relief.
• Resources for displaced bartenders.
• Resources for displaced hospitality workers.
• If you are an artist the NYS Foundation for the Arts has Emergency Grants.
• If you are a photographer there are small grants available.
• PSEG has a Coronavirus page that is updated regularly
• There is now a 90 day waiver on mortgage payments which is a relief to the thousands of Long Islanders that had those bills hanging over their head during an extended forced shutdown.
• Freddie Mac is prohibiting evictions on properties where their loans are in place
• AT&T suspends collection activities during the Coronavirus crisis
• PSEG Long Island Halts Service Shut Offs
• National Grid Halts Service Shut Offs
• Verizon Suspends Collection Activities
• Geico postponed collectons during Coronavirus shutdown
• You may be able to temporarily stop making your student loan payments.
• Got credit card debt? Here is an updated list of banks that are providing relief to customers affected by the Coronavirus.
• Got wireless bills? AT&T and Verizon have given guidance on how to handle them – here is Sprint’s
• Auto insurance bills? Many car insurance companies are providing discounts and credits to customers as a result of the dramatic reduction in driving that’s been taking place during the pandemic. Check with your provider to see if they’re offering one, and if there are any steps you need to take in order to receive the discount.
• National Grid has updated information about their billing.
• Curious about the process for Federal Coronavirus Recovery Checks? The first round of federal relief payments began going out today, so if the federal government had your direct deposit information from a recent income tax filing, you should check your bank account!
• NYS has updated its essential list of businesses again. Check out the latest.
• NYS Comptroller Tom DiNapoli has developed a Covid-19 Financial Survival Toolkit for New Yorkers with links and resources for residents, government entities, nonprofits and businesses. Check it out.
HUMAN NEEDS
• Island Harvest provides free referrals and free assistance for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) over the phone, and you do not have to go to the Department of Social Services. Island Harvest can walk you through the online application by telephone or complete a short intake and submit the online application for you. Give them a call at 631-873-4775 for assistance.
• A new testing site is opening in Elmont.
• Umbrella is coordinating grocery delivery for adults 60+ across Long Island. Individuals can place an order online at askumbrella.com or call 516-882-4498 to get matched with a local volunteer to shop on their behalf. There is a $10 suggested contribution per order to help offset some of our overhead costs - but it is up to the individual to pay what they wish. No one is turned away. With questions about the service, please contact emma@askumbrella.com.
• New York State will provide child care scholarships to essential workers. Child care costs will be covered for essential staff whose income is less than 300% of the federal poverty level — or $78,600 for a family of four. Essential workers (including health care providers, law enforcement, food delivery workers, grocery store employees and others) can use these scholarships to pay for their existing care arrangement.
If an essential worker needs child care, they can use the below link to begin the application process (select by language spoken)
• Folks need Food: If you are in need of food Island Harvest has their food locater and is working round the clock to continue supplies to those in need
• Domestic Violence is up 10%: Many experts in the area of domestic violence prevention have pointed out lately that Isolation and unemployment are a recipe for disaster in a household with a history of intimate partner violence. If you need help, contact the Safe Center 24/7 at 516-542-0404 or the NY Domestic & Sexual Violence Hotline at 800-942-6906. If you are in any personal crisis, you can also call the Long Island Crisis Center 24/7 hotline at 516-679-1111.
• How is your mental health? A mental health hotline is available to New Yorkers who need it. We can't underestimate the impact this pandemic is having on mental health. Over 6,000 mental health professionals have volunteered their time to help with New York's Coronavirus response. For free emotional support, consultation and referral to a provider, call 1-844-863-9314
• If you are pregnant? Many pregnant women and their families are facing uncertainty about what the COVID-19 outbreak means for their ability to have a safe, supported delivery in Nassau County hospitals. In response to these concerns, Nassau County has launched a hotline: 516-4UR-CARE. Pregnant patients can call this line and get answers and advice about how to have a safe childbirth under COVID-19 conditions.
• New York State has a Coronavirus hotline and website for information or to schedule a test. Please call 888-364-3065 or navigate here.
• If you lost your health care, NYS has reopened its health exchange.
• Supervisor Bosworth and the Town of North Hempstead launched a new program to provide our seniors with remote companionship during these isolating times. The “Neighbors Helping Neighbors” program matches volunteers with seniors in the Project Independence program, and is designed to provide a sense of reassurance and comfort. To participate or to volunteer, call 311 or 516-869-6311
• If you are a Veteran and struggling through these difficult times you can have virtual Coffee with a Veteran each day at noon until Apr 30. Email Dave-rogers1969@live.com to sign up.
• If you are a senior every Thursday AARP has a live Q and A call to help you manage the Coronavirus crisis.
• If you live in the Huntington area a very thorough Coronavirus Resource Guide is available from the Office of Legislator William Doc Spencer.
• If you are a pet owner the CDC has some guidance. The USDA reported today that two pet cats in New York have tested positive for the novel coronavirus (they’re expected to recover.) There is no evidence that domestic animals can pass the virus on to humans, but it seems apparent that the cats did contract the virus from humans they came in contact with. As a result, the CDC has issued new guidance for pet owners: don’t let pets interact with people or other animals outside the household, keep cats indoors when possible, walk dogs on a leash, staying 6 feet away from other people and animals. Avoid dog parks or places where a large number of people and dogs gather.
HELP NEEDED
• Blood donations are needed: The New York Blood Center said it is in urgent need of donors, since coronavirus concerns have resulted in "critically low blood and platelet appointments" across Long Island. The NYBC has six centers in Nassau and Suffolk and said safety protocols are in place as they urge healthy individuals, who have not been exposed to coronavirus, to donate. The NYBC said if you are unsure if you can donate, you can ask their experts at 800-688-0900 or navigate to their webpage here.
St. Catherine of Siena Medical Center is calling for people to make appointments to donate blood.
HELP WANTED
• Tens of thousands of Long Islanders are out of work. There are many service industry positions seeking temporary or permanent employment. Here are some:
7-11 (looking to add 20,000 jobs)
Aldi (5,000 open positions)
Amazon (looking to add 100,000 employees)
CVS (looking to hire 50,000 employees)
Dollar Tree/Family Dollar (25,000 full- and part-time associates)
Domino’s (looking to hire up to 10,000 employees)
Pepsi (bring another 6,000 people on board)
Pizza Hut (over 30,000 open positions)
ShopRite
Stop & Shop
Walgreens (fill roughly 9,500 full- and part-time positions)
Walmart (adding 150,000 temporary positions)
General Listings:
Indeed
Long Island's Craigslist
New York Jobs
Simply Hired
• There are nearly 2 million folks currently out of work but the good news for some is that NYS is hiring 17,000 tracers at $57,000 a year. Check it out in Patch.
• If someone is looking for a procurement opportunity with the federal government check out this source
HOME & STIR CRAZY
• Pounding your head into the wall with your new job description as a home school teacher? Check out Nassau Boces and their PreK initiative for all sorts of resources to help figure it out.
• Walking is important during this shutdown and is a form of self care.
• Folks are at home with their families and children for extended periods. It’s important to know how to talk to your kids about Coronavirus so they don’t think we are living in an episode of the Walking Dead. Here is also some guidance from PBS.
• If you are trying to figure out what to do at home with your kid while they have very limited hours with their teachers online. Western Suffolk BOCES has produced an online toolkit for learning.
An added bonus to the toolkit is an activity with Mo Willems, Author of “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus” and many other cool stories
• Turn off your Zoom call once you are done.
• Bored at home - Fifty libraries in Nassau County now offer digital cards, allowing residents to explore their hometown library's book, music and art collections online from the comfort of their couch.
• How to make your own face mask.
• If you need some info on how to make your own mask.
• Can’t find hand sanitizer and need to make your own? Here is one recipe.
• Need to boost your immune system? The Long Island Press has some ideas.
• If you like doing yoga: Girls Inc is hosting Family Virtual yoga on Friday April 17th at 5:30.
• How to make homemade disinfectant spray and wipes.
• Check out a virtual landscape art exhibit from the Westbury Arts Council
• Always wanted to learn to play guitar but never had time? Fender is giving free lessons from the next three months.
• Are you and your kids are glued to screens and losing your mind? Here are 100 non electronic things you can do to keep your kids occupied during the lockdown.
• Bored at home? East End Arts is providing virtual access to artists.
• The Staller Center for the Arts has a virtual tour of many instruments and their outreach activities
• Pet ownership is up – here is a piece on how pet ownership helps address isolation particularly for older adults.
• Do you miss Dinner and a movie? The Cinema Arts Center offers free cooking videos to pair with your favorite independent films they can virtually screen. Check out the story.
Here is the direct link.
• Need Chocolate Activity Kits for kids? Chocolate Works provides decorating kits, easter oreos and other home kits to make with you kids. For every one you buy Pink Tie donates one to local food pantries in Hempstead and Medford!
INNOVATION UNDERWAY
• Folks are answering Governor Cuomo’s call for ventilators, masks:
The Business Incubator Association has created an invitation to ventilate.
A Long Island Distillery is making hand sanitizer.
D’Addario, a Long Island musical instrument maker, pivots from making drumheads to face shields
ENVIRONMENT, TRANSPORTATION & SUSTAINABILITY
• AARP has announced a Livable Communities Challenge Grant for local community efforts.
• One benefit of Coronavirus: traffic is down and more folks walking, biking
• Environmental regulation impacted as EPA Suspended all Environmental Rules
• PSEG Long Island Continues to Storm-Harden the Grid
• MTA Announces Virtual Board Meeting to Be Held on April 22
• LIPA provides update on coordination plan and current projects and initiative
• NICE buses in Nassau County will switch to a reduced schedule. The service will operate on a Saturday schedule from Monday-Saturday, and Sunday service will be unchanged. This does not apply to the Elmont Flexi Shuttle, the Mercy Medical Community Shuttle, the Port Washington Shuttle, and the n19, n57, and n80 routes, which will all continue to run normally
• Good news – in a throwback that was really just 45 days ago – here is a profile on the hamlet of Bay Shore and the benefits of their two decades work of revitalization.
• More Good news - Consensus emerging on the superblock project in the City of Long Beach due to collaboration with a local developer and community organizations.
• VHB has put together a thoughtful resource guide on transportation, real estate and energy. Check it out.
OTHER NEWS & RESOURCES
• Nassau County Map of updates from Across the County
• Suffolk County Map of confirmed Coronavirus cases
• NYS has an established COVID tracker web site that provides data regarding the virus outbreak in the state, including a breakdown of fatalities by age, ethnicity, risk factors, etc.
• Thinking Globally? Here is a website documenting the world impact of Coronavirus.
• Inspirational op-ed from LIBN editor Joe Dowd
• Gary Labarbara from the NYS Building Trades Council speaks about safety for construction workers.
• Celebrities have time on their hands and are letting us know how they feel including Ben Stiller, Danny Devito, Cardi B, Robert Deniro and Madonna encouraging folks to stay home. Sean Penn was looking to send in the military. Arnold Schwartzeneger was telling folks to stay home while smoking a cigar in his hot tub, Neil Diamond even wrote a song called “Hands Washing Hands” sung to the tune of Sweet Caroline.
• Lots of social media chatter and online bullying regarding social distancing. According to Nassau County Executive Laura Curran, NCPD received 700 calls with only 12 unfounded or easily resolved with a warning. In Huntington Inspector William Scrima, commander of the Suffolk County Police Second Precinct said “We have gotten a number of calls about people and businesses who are not following social distancing guidelines. Many of the calls are unfounded, others are at businesses that people mistakenly believe are not designated essential. We have encountered a few non-essential businesses that are open and a few gatherings of people in public areas. All have complied with the guidelines, when notified by our officers.”
• The Tourism industry has been severely impacted. Here is a video with Kevin Wood from the Village of Port Jeff interviewing a representative from Danfords hotel.
• Do you care about your grocery store worker? Check out RWDSU President Stuart Applebaum interviewed at the AFLCIO podcast on conditions for workers.
• If you are into civic freedoms and civil liberties the International Center on Not for Profit Law has a global civic freedoms tracker tied to the Coronavirus crisis
HOW CAN I HELP?
There are hundreds of thousands unemployed in NY but there are many more as folks can't or haven’t navigated the system for benefits to date.
That is not simply an eye catching statistic but real people with lives upended.
For the folks that are still working I hope you are:
1) humble, sober and aware of the fact that right now millions of americans are in pain,
2) if you have resources to help local folks - patronize open small businesses to limit further job loss,
3) donate to local food pantries,
4) donate other resources directly to real people you may know in need and
5) if you have resources to give to groups make it very local groups who are on the ground and getting them needed help in this time.
CORPORATE PHILANTHROPY
• We are starting to see some Corporate Philanthropy develop that has been missing through this crisis. Stay tuned for a more thorough report.
Locally
- The Long Island Community Foundation has set up a Coronavirus fund for community services and organizations.
- Pink Tie and the LI Nets have developed a Pink Tie delivers program.
- Trader Joe’s has been making donations to local food pantries
- The Long Island East End Group purchased 15,000 masks for distribution to front line providers.
- The Estée Lauder Companies provided 10,000 hand sanitizer bottles (8 ounces each) per week for 4-5 weeks
- Owners of Shinn Estate Vineyards donate $100,000 to Eastern Long Island Hospitals
- LI Jobs with Justice Solidarity Fund
- Long Island Ambulatory Surgery Center donated a Ventilator
- In addition the United Way, The Townwide Fund of Huntington and the 1763 Foundation are all raising money to distribute to folks that meet their guidelines.
- The Long Island Chinese American Association volunteers, donated 10,000 masks and delivered lunch to first responders.
- Jim Hagedorn from Scotts Miracle-Gro donated $110,000 worth of protective equipment for first responders.
-
$250,000 New York Jets for direct worker assistance
- $250,000 Bank of America for direct worker assistance
- The Knapp Swezey Foundation has donated $500,000 to Patchogue charities.
- Sterling Bank provided $5,000 to Central Islip Food Bank
- National Grid provides support to local food pantries
• The United Way has a fund to assist low income wage earners who were either (1) laid off or (2) furloughed from their jobs due to COVID-19. People can search for assistance here.
Nationally
- JP Morgan Chase has committed $50 million
- Lowes has announced $25 million in grants and in-kind donations
- Citi Foundation has announced a $15 million fund
- Google has announced $15 million in cash grants
- Citizens Bank has announced $5 million
- Anna Wintour has set up a fund for folks in the fashion industry who are displaced.
- A number of grants for displaced local artists are starting to emerge
- Bank of America has dedicated a $100 million fund nationwide.
- Verizon has set up a small business recovery fund.
• While we have not seen much in the corporate philanthropy department one fantastic exception has been the LI Community Foundation. They have distributed $450,000 to a number of local organizations helping real people. Check it out.
There is still a dearth of real community level information and tons of questions from folks stay tuned daily for updates on the range of actions taken to get us through this public health and economic crisis.
We need you out there to tell is what is happening and what resources are available. No matter what please join the LI Main Street Alliance by emailing us at ea@visionlongisland.org or call 631-804-9128.
You can read previous editions of Long Island Main Street News here.
IMPORTANT WEBSITES TO TRACK:
Northwell Health Digital Resource Center
The US Small Business Administration
New York State Department of Labor
Occupational Safety and Health
AARP's Updates on the Coronavirus
Island Harvest's Food Pantry Tracker
Suffolk County Alliance of Chamber's Disaster Relief Information
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At this time of uncertainty, we are beginning to see a number of downtowns being shuttered as bars, restaurants, and any place where multiple people congregate are running up against fears of and caution at spreading the Coronavirus. While this is a socially responsible action that will help to save lives, in the short term these actions are having a number of adverse effects on our local communities.
Vision Long Island and Long Island Main Street Alliance members have collected a number of experiences from local restaurants and service businesses, but before we go into that we would like to encourage everyone reading this to find a way to responsibly patronize local establishments. Many stores are offering curbside pickup or online shopping to help them get through this difficult time. And your favorite restaurants are also currently open for business with takeout available.
We also urge you to consider gift cards in order to purchase something at a later date for yourself, or perhaps to give as a present.
Local shops are in a capable position to provide you with what you need in the short-term. Many will also be willing to accommodate you if you contact them ahead of time with requests that will minimize contact and help to lower the spread of this virus.
Vision has connected to over 600 small businesses in nearly 50 downtowns as they weather the economic storm through the Coronavirus. We encourage people to responsibly patronize these and other open establishments who need your help in this time of crisis.
Many of these businesses have been there for local organizations and philanthropy - they now need our support.
In the meantime, here is the featured downtown for today.
For a complete list of downtowns profiles, please check out our website here.
East Hampton
The Town of East Hampton, located on the southern shore of Long Island, is known for its beautiful beaches along the ocean and a sundry of charming shops and restaurants. With two villages, as well as five hamlets, East Hampton is a long-standing tourist community during the summer months, but off season, it is home to residents with strong community ties. The present health crisis, as in every town and village, has been taking its toll.
On April 14th, East Hampton Town Supervisor Peter Van Scoyoc marked the one-month anniversary since his initial declaration of a State of Emergency due to the spread of the COVID-19. Since then, Supervisor Van Scoyoc stated, “COVID-19 has become a full-blown pandemic and profoundly affected all of us in East Hampton, as well as populations worldwide."
Like many other towns and villages, East Hampton took many steps to protect the health and safety of residents, to prepare for and meet unprecedented challenges, provide important information to the public, and keep key government functions operating.
More recently, the Town established a reopening committee to help create a plan for the safe reopening of local businesses. The group includes representatives of major industries in the town, including construction, hospitality, restaurant, retail, real estate, insurance, fitness, and the legal profession, along with a Chamber of Commerce representative, and will eventually include a medical professional for epidemiological advice.
In the effort to meet the rising and varied challenges caused by COVID-19, government, business and residents continue to work together. From constant efforts to fill local food pantries, to encouraging community members to eat and shop local, East Hampton is working hard to keep business alive and residents fed.
Supervisor Van Scoyoc explains, “With continued diligence and cooperation from our entire community with stay-at-home and social distancing mandates, we hope to see the number of COVID-19 cases decrease, and a restart of our economy and return to our normal way of life.”
Here is list of eateries in the Village of East Hampton open for takeout and curbside.
CLICK HERE for a list of restaurants open for takeout and curbside throughout the township.
Babette’s
631-329-5377
Bostwick’s Chowder House
631-324-1111
Carissa’s the Bakery
631-604-5911
Cittanuova
631-324-6300
Cove Hollow Tavern
631-527-7131
East Hampton Grill
631-329-6666
Fierro’s Pizza
631-324-5751
Fresno Restaurant
631-324-8700
Highway Restaurant
631-527-5372
John Papas
631-324-5400
Luigi’s
631-329-0558
Nick & Toni's
631-324-3550
Rowdy Hall
631-324-8555
Serafina
631-267-3500
Smokin' Wolf
631-604-6470
The 1770 House Restaurant & Inn
631-324-1770
The Maidstone
631-324-5006
The Palm
631-324-0411
Villa Italian Specialties
631-324-5110
PinkTie Delivers to Central Islip and other Pantries
Vision was out in support of Pink Tie Delivers today for a donation drop in Central Islip.
PinkTie Delivers is a partnership between PinkTie and Late Night Chauffers to deliver much-needed food and supplies to local communities. The service supports local food pantries by pikcing up donations from residents and delivering them around Long Island. They have been in existence for a few weeks now and have already done some excellent work.
Vision was happy to support our friends at the Central Islip Civic Council and the Central Islip Coalition of Good Neighbors with this delivery. Those organizations have partnered to feed hundreds of residents as the ongoing health crisis puts more and more people into dire situations.
In addition to Central Islip, the Pink Tie team has made deliveries to Freeport, Mastic Beach, Medford, Westbury, and twice to Hempstead.
Kudos to Mike and Rich Cave from 1st Equity Title and Cofounders of Pink Tie, along with Matt Seifer from Late Night Chauffers and Mike Passantino from Trinity Solar, who united for the effort.
Governor Cuomo Announces Moratorium on COVID-Related Evictions Extended to August 20th
The following is an update from Governor Cuomo’s website:
Amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the state's moratorium on COVID-related residential or commercial evictions will be extended for an additional 60 days until August 20th. The Governor also announced the state is banning late payments or fees for missed rent payments during the eviction moratorium, and allowing renters facing financial hardship due to COVID-19 to use their security deposit as payment and repay their security deposit over time.
Governor Cuomo also announced the state's $25 million Nourish New York Initiative has purchased food and products from more than 2,100 New York farms and provided support to nearly 50 food banks, soup kitchens and food pantries to date. Within the next week, more than 20,000 households across the state will receive Nourish New York products. First announced by the Governor on April 27th, the Nourish New York Initiative provides relief by purchasing food and products from Upstate farms and directs them to the populations who need them most through New York's network of food banks. The state is also asking any philanthropies or foundations that would like to help the state's food banks to contact COVIDPhilanthropies@exec.ny.gov.
The Governor also announced the results of state's antibody testing survey of health care workers. The survey tested approximately 27,000 employees from 25 downstate health care facilities and found that the infection rate among health care workers is about the same or lower than the infection rate of the general population.
• 6.8 percent of health care workers in Westchester County tested positive for COVID-19 antibodies, compared to 13.8 percent of the general population in Westchester County
• 12.2 percent of health care workers in New York City tested positive for COVID-19 antibodies, compared to 19.9 percent of the general population in New York City
• 11.1 percent of health care workers on Long Island tested positive for COVID-19 antibodies, compared to 11.4 percent of the general population on Long Island
"During these incredibly difficult and stressful times we must protect New Yorkers who are facing financial hardships due to COVID-19," Governor Cuomo said. "The majority of people in the state live paycheck to paycheck, and all of a sudden the paychecks have stopped for these individuals but the rent bill keeps coming in. In March we issued a moratorium on all residential and commercial evictions, and we are going to extend that moratorium until August 20th to provide some relief to those New Yorkers who are struggling."
Finally, the Governor confirmed 3,491 additional cases of novel coronavirus, bringing the statewide total to 327,469 confirmed cases in New York State.
You can watch the Governor’s full briefing here.
LIBN Hosts First LIBNOW Online Show
This morning Long Island Business News held its inaugural LIBNOW online show, which will be a weekly recap show. The show takes the pulse of the Long Island business community and features an interactive Q&A that will allow users to interact with special guests.
The goal will be to keep participants ahead of the curve as the region begins to prepare with returning to business as the region begins the re-opening process.
The inaugural show featured Vision Director Eric Alexander and Discover Long Island’s President and CEO Kristen Jarnagin as special guests. LIBN hosts included Ali Jabbour, Joe Dowd, and Jenna Natale.
You can watch the episode online here.
SBA PPP Program now Accepting New Applications
The SBA Payment Protection Program (PPP) loan program that had previously run out of money is now accepting new applications.
The loan program is aimed at providing an incentive for small businesses to keep their workers on payroll as the economic shutdown from the coronavirus continues. Small businesses are encouraged to apply as quickly as possible through an approved lender so as to ensure protaction monies for their business.
The SBA has released a 36-page FAQ for businesses if they’re interested in applying. You can also access further information about the loan program here directly from the SBA’s website.
Calendar of Events
The following is a list of upcoming and ongoing calendar events. Check back on each publication for updates:
• Virtual Walks: The Health Education Council will be holding Virtual Walks every Monday at 12:30 pm EST and Wednesday at 3 pm EST, with a Spanish language virtual walk each Friday at 3 pm EST.
If you're interested in taking a walk with friends while still practicing social distancing you can head to the the website here to sign up for a virtual walk. A Spanish speaking version is available here. You will then receive a zoom link and all you'll need is a smart phone and a good pair of shoes and you'll be in business!
Long Island Sound Futures Fund 2020 Request for Proposals
The Long Island Sound Futures Fund (LISFF) is seeking proposals to protect and restore the health and living resources of the Long Island Sound. Approximately $3 million is available for grants in the categories of implementation, design, planning, or (new this year) highest impact.
Proposals will be accepted until 11:59pm EST on Tuesday, June 2, 2020.
Eligible applicants include non-profit 501(c) organizations, state government agencies, local government, municipal government, Indian tribes, and educational institutions.
Overview
The LISFF is looking for proposals that address the strategies and Implementation Actions contained within the four themes of the 2015 Long Island Sound Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan (CCMP). Those themes include Clean Waters and Healthy Watersheds, Thriving Habitats and Abundant Wildlife, Sustainable and Resilient Communities, and Sound Science and Inclusive Management.
The projects must be within the boundary of the Long Island Sound (LIS) watershed and, dependent on project type, met other geographic restrictions. The boundary for the LIS watershed in New York includes the waters that drain from the north shore of Long Island and southern Westchester County. (See RFP for complete boundary.)
These projects can take on a variety of actions, ranging from protection of water quality through wastewater treatment upgrades to hands-on public engagement projects. Proposals that incorporate resilience to climate change, long-term sustainability, and environmental justice, are strongly encouraged as these are important cross-cutting issues in the CCMP. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions about potential proposals.
Information and some examples of projects within CCMP Themes can be found on the LISFF 2020 RFP webpage. Click on the year to see what was previously funded: 2019, 2018, or 2017.
CDC Guidelines on Coronavirus Prevention
As concern about the ever-expanding impact of coronavirus (COVID-19) grows, we can minimize or prevent the spread of coronavirus by taking these steps:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. Wash or sanitize your hands thoroughly.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a household cleaning spray or antiseptic wipe.
- Follow CDC’s recommendations for using a facemask.
- CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19.
- Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings (at home or in a health care facility).
These are everyday habits that can help prevent the spread of several viruses. CDC does have specific guidance for travelers.
Our Daily Sponsor
1st Equity Title
1st Equity National Title and Closing Services was established under the laws of New York and commenced business in 2003. Located in Melville, NY with offices in NJ and PA. They are a national title agency, licensed to do business across the country. They are local experts in the New York market, offering CEMA and Coop Search services along with a full suite of title insurance and related products nationwide. The organization has grown year over year due to a loyal client base as well as strategic acquisitions within the market.
Their goal is to be a highly respected, compliant and best in class, national Title and Closing Services Company, delivering exceptional service to their clients. Their culture is client centric with a focus on supporting the growth of their clients as well as the surrounding community. Their approach to clients is “We do business the way you do business”.
Smart Talk
Contributors:
Eric Alexander, Director; Tawaun Weber, Assistant Director;
Christopher Kyle, Communications
Director;
Elissa Kyle, Placemaking Director; Jon Siebert, Administrative Director
We strive to provide continued quality publications like this every week. If you have any news or events that you would like to add to our newsletter, submit them to info@visionlongisland.org for consideration.
If you are interested in becoming a newsletter or news blast sponsor, please call the office at 631-261-0242 for rates and opportunities.
Vision Long Island
24 Woodbine Ave., Suite Two
Northport, NY 11768
Phone: 631-261-0242. Fax: 631-754-4452.
Email: info@visionlongisland.org
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